District Forester (EMNRD #5336)

Interviews are anticipated to be conducted within two weeks of closing date. Why does the job exist? The District Forester is responsible for coordinating and directing the implementation of forest and watershed management and protection activities on New Mexico's non‑federal, non‑municipal, and non‑tribal lands in the counties of Socorro, Hidalgo, Luna, Dona Ana, Sierra, Catron, and Grant. The District Forester evaluates and determines program delivery based on the goals and needs of diverse private landowners, public land management agencies and cooperators, rural communities, and forest‑based businesses. The District Forester provides administrative and fiscal management, budget oversight of the District, and supervision of District staff. How does it get done? The position coordinates and directs the implementation of forest management activities within the District, including providing technical forestry assistance to landowners and state and local government agencies; forest insect and disease management; safe and effective fire response on non‑federal, non‑municipal, and non‑tribal lands; wildland‑urban interface and hazardous fuels reduction to protect homes from wildfire; collaborative, cross‑boundary large‑scale forest restoration planning and project implementation; compliance of timber harvest activities with state regulations; and tracking and reporting on performance measures for the District's activities. This position is the key management position in the field to accomplish the Department's goals of Healthy Forests in New Mexico, adjusting the management of fire and forests to adapt to climate change, and mitigating impacts on New Mexico forests, watersheds, and communities. The District Forester makes decisions to implement the priorities outlined in New Mexico's Forest Action Plan. Who are the customers? Primary customers are private landowners, cooperating State and Federal and natural resource management agencies, other non‑federal landowners such as local governments, tribal governments, and citizens of the State. Ideal Candidate Exceptional leadership and management skills with the ability to effectively communicate orally and in writing while making senior level decisions with minimal guidance or direction and communicating effectively with executive management. Sound knowledge base of wildland fire suppression response, administration, management, and financial decisions. Extensive forest management knowledge, implementation, contracting, agreements, and financial management associated with forest management, post‑fire restoration, reforestation, and project management. Knowledgeable in grant management, administration, implementation, reporting requirements, and systems. Knowledge of state procurement codes, code of federal regulations, other procurement regulations, laws, and policies. Knowledge of the Forest Conservation Act, Forestry Division, and Forest Action Plan. Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in any field and four (4) years of relevant experience in this occupation. Any combination of education from an accredited college or university and/or related experience in this occupation totaling eight (8) years may substitute for the required education and experience. Employment Requirements Must maintain and possess a current New Mexico Driver's License, Defensive Driving Certificate, pass annual wildland fire certifications, and meet standards to maintain certifications if the incumbent desires to maintain wildland fire qualifications or meet and maintain other certification requirements for non‑fire related qualifications. Working Conditions Work will primarily be in an office setting, exposure to Visual/Video Display terminal (VDT) and extensive personal computer and telephone usage with extended periods of sitting. Must be willing to serve as a rotational duty officer year round. Extensive travel and potential for intermittent work in rough and remote terrain. Work irregular or extended hours including evenings, weekends and holidays is common during the wildland fire season. May be exposed to a variety of weather conditions associated with forest management and wildland fire management activities. Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. on occasion. Bargaining Unit Position This position is not covered by a collective bargaining agreement. #J-18808-Ljbffr New Mexico Department of Justice